Lajong begin U-20 I-League campaign today

SHILLONG: Shillong Lajong FC will open their Under 20 I-League campaign with an expected high-octane encounter against Goan side Churchill Brothers SC at the JRD Tata Complex in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, on Wednesday at 1pm.

Lajong finished third in the 2012 edition – an achievement of sorts-after fielding a very young squad.

The SLFC squad is ably coached by Gumpe Rime – a man who is no stranger to the “big” game expectations and atmosphere, having been a part of the senior team.

Commenting on the game, Gumpe said, “The boys are in a good mood and are fit and raring to go. They have been training very hard and I believe that they can deliver a good performance.”

Out of four matches, Lajong will play three of them at 1pm, something that is of concern to Gumpe.

“My biggest concern is the heat factor as it is very hot during the day time,” he said. “It is important to start the campaign on a winning note and we need to have a positive approach to the game.”

Shillong Lajong were victorious the last time the two teams met in the 2012 edition of the I-League and Wednesday’s game promises to be very exciting.

Meanwhile, in Tuesday’s matches, Pune FC started their defence of the title in fine form, beating Prayag United 2-0 in their Group A match.

In another Group A game, Sporting Club De Goa and United Sikkim FC drew 1-1.

Sikkim were down a goal but responded well and equalised through Rabin Tamang.